Brighten up your pantry with "Cranberries in the Sun," a delightful and naturally sweet treat that marries tart fresh cranberries with the warmth of sunshine. This simple recipe combines plump, juicy cranberries with a homemade simple syrup, allowing the berries to soak up just the right amount of sweetness before they are dried to chewy perfection under the sun. Perfect for snacking, baking, or adding a pop of flavor to your favorite dishes, these sunny cranberries are a healthier, homemade alternative to store-bought dried fruit. With just three ingredients, minimal prep time, and an all-natural drying process, this recipe is as rewarding as it is easy. Make a batch of these vibrant, jewel-like bites and enjoy their tangy-sweet flavor for weeks to come!
Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly and remove any stems or damaged berries.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar to make a simple syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Add the cranberries to the saucepan and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries start to burst. Stir gently to ensure all the cranberries are coated in the syrup.
Remove the saucepan from heat and use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the cranberries onto a wire rack or a clean piece of parchment paper. Spread the cranberries out into a single layer, ensuring they donβt clump together.
Place the cranberries in a sunny, warm location (outdoors or by a sunny window). Cover them loosely with a thin layer of cheesecloth to protect them from dust or bugs.
Let the cranberries dry in the sun for 2-3 days, turning them occasionally to ensure even drying. The exact drying time will depend on sunlight and humidity levels.
Once the cranberries are completely dried and chewy in texture, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 month.
Calories |
611 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.5 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 18 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 161.0 g | 59% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.0 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 121.5 g | ||
| Protein | 2.0 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 55 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 400 mg | 9% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.